WHAT'S THE SOLUTION?
In the last week or two, I have noticed that I have a sore tongue after eating and drinking, even water. I have no visible ulcers. Is this some sort of deficiency?
A sore tongue in the absence of clear signs of ulceration or sores might be a symptom of Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. I would recommend that you take a food-derived vitamin B complex containing these two nutrients for a couple of months. I would also recommend the use of Peri Gum Mouthwash Concentrate. This mouthwash seems to work for a number of mouth and tongue concerns including inflammation, geographic tongue and the general health of the oral cavity.
Please let me know the difference between the two Vitamin C Serums from Garden of Wisdom because I am confused.
The Vitamin C 23% serum is a water based acidic serum that has a pH between 3 and 3.5 and works greatly in the epidermal (outermost) layer of skin. The aim of this serum is to gently exfoliate, target an uneven skin as in hyperpigmentation, freshen and brighten skin appearance and also to provide some vitamin C for collagen production.
C-Deep Vitamin C Serum contains a derivative of Vitamin C, called tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, which is suspended in a light oil, squalane. This takes this Vitamin C through the outermost layers into the dermal layers where collagen synthesis takes place. The vitamin C derivative is broken down into acidic Vitamin C as it passes through the cell layers, so this serum works largely for collagen synthesis and less so for pigmentation problems although there is always an overlap.
I have had a cough for the last nine years. It has been diagnosed as an idiopathic cough, laryngeal neuropathy. Is there anything which you think may help ease this cough?
I suspect that this long term cough is the result of what is termed silent reflux where the actual acids do not come up but the vapours of the acid, which can result in irritation in the oesophagus, inflammation and over a long time this may also result in the neuropathy of the larynx. I would recommend that you take Ivy Thyme Complex which is not a traditional syrup type cough linctus. This tincture contains extracts from Ivy which display soothing properties to inflamed tissues as well as thyme which displays multiple benefits.
I also believe that you would greatly benefit from the use of a salt inhaler. Salt therapy helps many respiratory concerns since salt is known for its healing properties and since you are still coughing, the inflammation is clearly due to the acid vapours causing irritation. Each inhaler lasts approximately five years.
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I have chronic fatigue, is there anything you can suggest which may help?
Chronic fatigue syndrome is still not fully understood as there are many factors that may be responsible such as fatigue post a viral infection, hormonal imbalances, and perhaps the poor functioning of the immune system. I have found that a supplement such as Daily Energy, containing herbs that support energy production, reduce stress hormones and help achieve hormonal balance, seems to help to some degree in alleviating many of the multiple symptoms of this concern.
I am having a lot of bloating and wind at the moment and slight constipation. Is there anything that could help?
Bloating is normally associated with a lack of digestive enzymes that help to break down all food groups, helping to prevent stagnation in the gut. This stagnation is also the reason for slight constipation. A good starting point would be the use of Enzy 110 to be taken before each major meal. This enzyme supplement also contains alpha galactosidase in case there is any associated wind or flatulence. For additional support, you may wish to try Absolute Ginger Tea. Ginger helps soothe the digestive system and helps relieve inflammation.
I have circulation problems around my pelvis area. My periods take a while to discharge and I find the area around my pelvis very itchy. Are there any supplements that could help?
It sounds like you are suffering from a very mild form of pelvic congestion syndrome. This occurs due to venous insufficiency which means that the veins dilate and become overfilled with blood which then pool in the area causing itching and pain. I suggest that you consider taking Diosmin Plus, a supplement that enhances circulation in both circulatory systems, venous and lymphatic, to ease the flow of blood. With time, this supplement helps to strengthen blood vessels but more importantly, it helps prevent the loss of elasticity in these blood vessels, which will also help to prevent the pooling of blood in any region.
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My 33 year old son has multiple stones in both kidneys. Is there anything you can recommend to stop them from forming? He has been given Tamsulosin to help them pass.
High purine foods can cause the production of monosodium urate which under certain conditions may result in uric acid stones to form especially when the urine is too acidic which is why it is recommended to drink litres of water per day. Taking Uric Acid Control on a daily basis may be a great preventative supplement which is safe to take for not just stones, but also because uric acid is detrimental for joints and for the cardiovascular system too.
My 22 year old son quite often seems to get blocked tear ducts. Are there any products that could minimise this happening or help with unblocking?
Injury, trauma, age-related changes and simply genetics may play a role in getting blocked tear ducts. The blockage occurs because the tears or lubricant produced may be heavier than normal and often simply introducing a quality omega 3,6,9 liquid supplement daily makes a dramatic difference. The regular use of warm compresses may also be of benefit and even five minutes a day might make a difference.
Can you recommend any vitamins or minerals to aid the healing of my 15 year old son’s vertebrae? He is an elite footballer playing three times a week and is desperate to get back to training and playing. He has been told to rest for twelve weeks and to take Vit K and Vit D. Is there anything else that I can do for him?
If your son is not on a dairy-free diet then he should not require calcium supplements and the vitamins D and K work in their differing ways to help deposit calcium onto the bone framework. What remains clear is that inflammation at the site of the injury often hinders the healing process, so it would be wise to take a powerful natural anti-inflammatory such as Bromelain.
Bromelain is a protein digesting enzyme derived from the stems of the pineapple plant and when taken on an empty stomach (minimum half hour before any food), this enzyme displays potent anti-inflammatory and tissue healing benefits so it also helps to strengthen soft tissues like ligaments and tendons as well as the skeletal structure.
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Can you recommend something to help with perimenopausal rage?
Perimenopausal rage arises as a result of female hormonal imbalances that results in the adrenals producing excess cortisol. Magnolia Rhodiola Complex is a supplement that works to reduce elevated stress hormones, physically relaxes muscles and nerves, elevates mood and relaxes the mind. Since rage, bad mood and other stress symptoms are associated with female hormonal decline, you might also consider taking a supplement such as Sage Complex. This supplement contains several herbs that mimic oestrogen and so help to prevent the adrenals from going into overdrive mode.
My 14 year old daughter has just had her second meniscus surgery in 18 months. She has been recommended by her physio to take a Glucosamine & Chondroitin supplement but I wondered if Superior Joints might be more suitable?
The meniscus are two pieces of cartilage on each side of the knee that provide a cushioning effect. Superior Joints helps to keep inflammation at bay and contains Natural Eggshell Membrane, a source of not just glucosamine but the group of glycosaminoglycans which are thought to help in the long term strengthening of all joint structures. Also included in the formulation is hyaluronic acid which forms the major part of cartilage to help cushion the joints. I believe that Superior Joints is a better approach to maintaining healthy cartilage and joint mobility.
I’ve just ordered some Daily Immunity which I took all last winter but I have just read your article on NAD + Generator. Should one take both or would the NAD+ Generator do the same job as Daily Immunity?
Daily Immunity provides the nutrients and probiotic strains required for the support of the immune system and to produce antigens and signal chemicals that send white blood cells to the sites of infection, whereas NAD+ works to enhance the repair processes so that our bodies are able to fight infections effectively aside from providing multiple other benefits, so I suggest taking both these supplements.
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I have a patch of contact dermatitis on my back just where my bra sits. This has been diagnosed by my GP, it is very itchy and I have tried many creams, but so far nothing has worked. I would appreciate any product recommendations.
Contact dermatitis, a form of eczema, may be associated with bra clips where these clips may contain more than one metal, one of which could cause the allergy, or it could be the result of an allergy to the elastic material. Back eczema may also be associated with a fungal infection resulting in intertrigo, a reddish, cracked and itchy rash that is triggered by moisture, friction, and a lack of circulation. I would recommend the use of a steroid-free calming topical spray to ease the itching, cool the area. Thyme Out displays powerful antifungal and antimicrobial properties and encourages the healing of inflamed tissues. Use twice a day and allow the area to breathe as much as you can. Please also consider taking zinc to heal the inflamed tissues.
Do you have any recommendations for LPR and silent reflux? I also have an LPR related chronic cough.
Centaurium Tincture works really well for Laryngopharyngeal reflux, acid reflux, silent reflux and general indigestion. I believe that your cough is associated with the acidic vapours running upwards into the oesophagus because the sphincter is not opening and shutting down correctly due to the lack of gastrin which occurs for some as part of the ageing process.
Do you have any suggestions for supplements to help with lupus?
Lupus is an autoimmune concern where the immune system is attacking its own tissues causing inflammation. This can occur anywhere on the body and what remains clear is that one has to reduce inflammation in the soft tissues and one has to make sure that you only take nutrients such as vitamin D3 and probiotics to support the immune system and not take herbs such as echinacea which stimulate the immune system.
In order to reduce inflammation in the body, I would recommend Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex which contains three of the most researched compounds found in turmeric with known anti-inflammatory benefits for all skin tissues. I would also recommend Cytokine Suppress with EGCG. This natural supplement contains an extract derived from the mung bean seed coat together with an extract from green tea known to help reduce cytokines in the body. Cytokines are small protein molecules that are involved in the signal processes between cells. Inflammatory cytokines are secreted by the immune system and promote inflammation. Cytokine Suppress has been the subject of small studies showing its ability to quench some of these inflammatory compounds and is safe for long term use.
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Are you able to suggest an effective treatment for lichen planus of the tongue and inner cheeks please? I've suffered from this for over 20 years. It disappears completely after I've been very ill, such as when I last had tonsilitis, but then returns several months after recovery.
The disappearance of Lichen Planus (LP) after you are ill is clearly linked to the immune system kicking in since Lichen Planus is thought to be related to the immune system or sometimes an abnormal response to medications. I suggest taking a supplement containing the actives from turmeric called Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex. These active compounds display potent anti-inflammatory properties and LP is after all the immune system attacking the tissues causing inflammation, sores and so on. Turmeric and its active compounds also display multiple benefits for digestion and for cleansing the blood of toxins. I would also recommend a specific mouthwash concentrate which has been of great benefit to people with LP called Peri Gum Mouthwash Concentrate. This is a blend of circulatory, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and astringents herbs that all work in synergy for the health of the oral cavity.
What is the solution to relax extremely tight neck and shoulder muscles?
The best solution is to spray some magnesium oil and to take some magnesium capsules since tightness is often indicative of a lack of magnesium involved in relaxing muscles and nerves. Please use four or five sprays twice a day of Magnesium Sensitive Body Spray to the affected areas both morning and evening. This will work locally to relax the muscles. I would also recommend taking a quality magnesium supplement, such as Magnesium Complex. Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions which explains why many of us are magnesium deficient as our diet cannot provide sufficient amounts. Magnesium Complex contains several magnesium compounds for immediate, intermediate and long term benefits.
Please can you recommend a product for swollen knees because the elevation of my knees has not helped at all?
Swollen knees usually occur as a result of arthritis, infection, gout or pseudogout and bursitis. At this stage, I would recommend Superior Joints because it helps to alleviate pain, it enhances circulation around the joint tissues, it encourages removal of uric acid which causes swellings, and it displays powerful anti-inflammatory benefits. Elevation would normally help if there was a circulatory issue which is why I am suggesting the joints supplement.
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I thought I had a cold but it turned out to be a virus. I’ve taken a course of antibiotics but feel that my chest isn’t clear. I’m still breathless and I’m not just feeling myself, so is there anything you could recommend to support lung function and/or reduction of phlegm?
Viral and bacterial infections cause inflammation of the lung tissues and the respiratory tract resulting in mucus, phlegm and so on. This can result in breathing difficulties and the need to clear the sinus and respiratory tract. I would suggest that you take Ivy Thyme Complex Tincture, 20 drops three times a day in some water. Ivy extracts works to soothe the linings of the respiratory tract whilst thyme contains volatile oils that ease breathing and display antimicrobial properties. This combination eases breathing because it opens up the airways. Many antibiotics reduce levels of energising B vitamins either directly or indirectly by destroying levels of probiotics which manufacture B vitamins in the gut. Lamberts Vitamin B50 should help enhance energy levels by restoring B vitamins.
I have itchy flaky skin behind my ears, and sometimes down towards my neck? Can you suggest a product to relieve this please?
I would recommend that you use Hope’s Relief Itchy Dry Skin Rescue Cream. This steroid-free cream is suitable for babies, children and adults and works to calm down inflammation which in turn helps to repair skin's natural barrier, whilst Manuka Honey and a blend of oils keep skin moisturised. Being steroid-free, this cream can be used for extended periods of time. Apply twice a day.
I would be so grateful if you could give me some advice about folliculitis. Can you suggest natural treatments I could use to prevent the spots from coming up, and to help with healing the scars left behind?
In general, folliculitis is caused when a hair follicle is both inflamed and infected. I would suggest that you spray Hydrosol Silver Spray morning and evening onto the area. Silver is the world's oldest natural antibiotic and works to eliminate all pathogens that reside in the area to help prevent and treat infections. I would also suggest treating this from within. Turmeric displays potent anti-inflammatory properties and also displays natural antimicrobial properties working from within the body. Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex contains three of the most studied active compounds found in turmeric.
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I have tried many eye creams for puffiness, slept with several pillows, but have found no solution. Can you suggest anything?
Eye puffiness may be associated with allergies, high salt diet, eye strain and inflammation. I recommend Garden of Wisdom Eye Contour Serum which is a multi-tasking serum with caffeine and various skin technologies to target eye puffiness, bags and fine lines. Caffeine acts as a diuretic helping to reduce fluid retention under the eye area. I find that using the serum with Temple Spa's Eye Therapist really helps as they will help enhance microcirculation around the eye tissues, which helps to disperse excess fluid. For optimum effect, please store Eye Therapist in the fridge prior to use.
Can you recommend anything for itchy ears?
Common causes for itchy ears are mild infections and blockages. I suggest MSM + Silver Topical Solution to be used as ear drops twice a day. MSM is a powerful anti-inflammatory whilst Silver displays antimicrobial and tissue healing properties.
I was wondering if I need to take my Fulvic acid still or will the NAD+ Generator be enough for my overall health?
NAD+ Generator works to enhance NAD+ levels which is involved in enzyme production, energy to repair and protect the cells and much more. However, it does not supply any ionic minerals that the body needs. These ionic minerals are found in Fulvic Acid, so the combination of the two would be recommended.
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Is there a natural solution for heavy periods?
Heavy periods are associated with oestrogen dominance in that either you have more oestrogen in the body or you do not have sufficient progesterone. The herb Chasteberry or Agnus Castus works to enhance progesterone levels and so achieve hormonal balance in the body to alleviate heavy periods, however patience is the key since this can take several weeks and in most cases, it takes two cycles to experience the benefits. PeriAgna is a supplement that provides Agnus Castus extract which helps with heavy periods, irregular periods as well as PMS symptoms, such as breast tenderness, menstrual cramps and irritability.
Can you recommend a treatment for scalp shingles?
The specific virus responsible for shingles resides at the nerve endings in the body when dormant and so any treatment would be aimed at reducing the numbers of this virus by the use of lysine supplementation since lysine blocks an amino acid called arginine which is the 'food' for the virus to replicate. As far as the scalp is concerned, it is important to calm down the inflammation that can lead to itching. Cooling compresses on the area/s affected are often recommended and perhaps a topical spray such as Fulvic Mist to calm underlying inflammation on the scalp as well as being beneficial for the hair since some people experience hair loss in the area.
My mother has had a productive cough for over twenty years. She has had every hospital test available, without diagnosis and tried many medications without success. This condition is very distressing for her. Do you have any advice?
Productive coughs are associated with inflammation that causes the release of mucus. This may be due to postnasal drip, inflammatory diet, or COPD if that applies. In the absence of any conclusive cause by the hospital I would recommend that your mother tries Ivy Thyme Complex Drops. This herbal supplement contains extracts of Thyme with its volatile oils that break up mucus easing its expulsion, whilst Ivy displays membrane soothing properties to calm inflammation of the linings of the respiratory tract.